HTC unveils its new VR headset, the Vive XR Elite

A new standalone competitor arrives soon

HTC has revealed its new standalone virtual reality headset, the Vive XR Elite. It’s able to handle both virtual and augmented reality, and comes in at a price tag of $1,099.

Pre-orders went live today on sites like Amazon, where you can check out the specifications for this new headset. HTC’s new set looks to compete with the likes of the Meta Quest, an extremely popular headset that’s also cut out the cables.

This headset looks aimed to do many of the same things you’d expect out of something like the Meta Quest. It’s a standalone VR headset that can also hook up to a PC for some extra power, and it has adjustable diopter dials for glasses-wearers. The battery allows for up to 2 hours of continuous power but is hot-swappable, and the screen comes in at a combined 3840 x 1920 resolution, with 110 degree field of view and 90 Hz refresh rate.

Quite interestingly, the Vive XR Elite can also fold up into a case and go on-the-go with you, like a pair of sunglasses. It’s a neat trick, but certainly intriguing for folks who want their VR games to travel with them.

As for other Vive headsets, The Verge reports that the Vive Focus 3 and Vive Pro 2 headsets will stay on sale, though the Vive Flow will likely be retired near the end of the year.

Expanding reality

This headset looks to compete in the growing market of VR/AR headsets, which is where other companies seem to be looking too. The Vive XR Elite looks to pack in some power with its headset, while still keeping things light and portable.

It’s an interesting competitor to Meta’s options, both for the price-bumped Quest 2 and the pricier Quest Pro. We’ll have to see how this new headset fits into the landscape later on this year.

Eric Van Allen

Senior News Reporter